The S.C. Department of Children's Advocacy celebrates November as Adoption Month. This year's theme is "Every Conversation Matters," and the campaign focuses on "finding the right adoptive family for each teen who is waiting and highlights the importance of engaging young people in all aspects of daily child welfare practice." Click here to read the 2021 National Adoption Month Children's Bureau's message. 

In South Carolina, Governor Henry McMaster has proclaimed November as Adoption Month. “Adoption Month is an opportunity to recognize those who choose to adopt while amplifying the numerous ways South Carolinians can get involved in the adoption process,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “I encourage all South Carolinians to learn more about the adoption process and the joy that comes from providing for a child in need.”

South Carolina is recognizing Monday, November 22 as Adoptions Day in South Carolina, and adoption finalization hearings are scheduled to be held throughout that day. Fifty-one (51) children from forty-two (42) South Carolina Family Court jurisdictions are scheduled to be adopted on November 22, 2021. 

As National Adoption Month begins, 168 children in the state’s foster care system are legally free for adoption and waiting for a permanent place to call home – a forever family. The South Carolina Department of Social Services reports that 118 of these youths are ages 10-17 and represent the agency’s greatest need of providing permanency to this population.

“Every child deserves to live and grow in a loving, caring, and supportive home,” said Michael Leach, DSS State Director. “We are grateful to those who take children in and make them part of their forever family. We also recognize the great need for families to adopt older youth, who often age out of the system before finding homes. Making these connections help them to become independent, productive adults.” Click here to read DSS's full press release regarding Adoption Month. 

State Child Advocate and Department of Children's Advocacy Director Amanda Whittle shared, "Celebrating Adoption Month in November goes hand in hand with celebrating Reunification Month in June. The Children's Bureau's 2021 National Adoption Month message acknowledges and underscores the importance of preserving families, and, when necessary, ensuring that adoption efforts are child-focused. The conversations we have are essential for bringing children together with the adoptive family that is best for them."  

The South Carolina Heart Gallery is administered by the Department of Children's Advocacy. The children featured on the S.C. Heart Gallery are children who are in foster care in South Carolina and awaiting forever homes through adoption. There are many factors to consider prior to making the decision to pursue adoption from South Carolina foster care. To learn more about foster care adoption and South Carolina's Heart Gallery, visit the S.C. Heart Gallery website here.